family lore states that my ancestor 'bought his way out' of the war. I have heard of men who paid conscription to others to report in their place. was this clandestine, or might there be 'lists' or records of any of these folk? I'd be interested whether he is noted anywhere [I don't recall he was 'wealthy' by any means, but his wife's family, VAUGHN from Alton, might have been]. can't imagine they'd be 'proud' to list themselves as *not* warriors, but one never knows... any clues out there? thanks. kirby in NC kirbz@northstate.net